Ballerina Robyn set for greatness

Six years of hard work has paid off for a Shanklin dancer, who is now part of an elite group accepted by a prestigious dance school.

Robyn Maynard-Sibley has been undertaking dance training and education at the Central School of Ballet (CSB), in London, where her studies will lead to a BA (hons) qualification, validated by a university.

Robyn, 17, who has been dancing since she was 11, has now completed her first term at CSB, the only dance school in the country to offer this qualification. Robyn was selected as one of 39 dancers from 350 applicants who applied to CSB this year and after auditions, which were held in London, Glasgow, Leeds, Italy and Japan.

The course’s main focus is on classical ballet, supported by contemporary dance as an additional subject, and also includes tuition in choreography, Spanish dance, Pilates, jazz dance, drama, Dalcroze Eurhythmics, singing and contextual studies.
Robyn gained her early enthusiasm for dance by attending the Gillian Cartwright School of Dance, Shanklin, and went to Sandown Bay Academy, where she gained 11 GCSEs.

Robyn said: “I’ve now completed the first term and it’s been hard work but fun too. The training is very challenging, similar to the training of the best athletes, but we are all motivated by the rewards of performing.”

During her final year, Robyn will join the school’s touring company, Ballet Central; many graduates from CSB often progress to join the world’s premier dance companies, so all our luck and best wishes go to Robyn.

About the Author

Emily Scotcher Em is a 23-year-old English graduate from Shorwell, who is happiest with a musical instrument, book or pen in her hand. She is passionate about Shakespeare, musicals and pantomime, and her proudest moment is appearing in the 'Les Miserables' feature film. Emily possesses the rare ability to be in several places at once - follow her on Twitter (@EmScotcher) to keep up with her adventures!

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